Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

Dedicated to the memory of John Wimber, this album contains songs that the Vineyard Christian Fellowship in Manchester use in their meetings. The sleeve notes explain that these songs express a longing for intimacy with God and this theme is maintained throughout. Sensitive acoustic arrangements coupled with main songwriter John de Jong's tender vocals give songs like "You Are There" and the title track a soothing and meditative quality. Highlights include versions of "More Love, More Power" and Wimber's own "Spirit Song" together with David Boyd's tasty acoustic guitar solo in "I Trust In You". "Be Free" - a stunning enactment of Luke 7:36-50 - showcases de Jong's anointing as a songwriter as well as the captivating voice of Sally Thornton. I'm sure the harmonised voices of de Jong and Thornton would have been breathtaking had she been featured more and would probably have given the album some necessary variety. "I Long For You" is an intriguing taster of the kind of songs Manchester Vineyard are coming up with and will hopefully encourage others in seeking intimacy in their relationship with God.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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